Deuteronomy 31:17 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

Then my anger shall be kindled against them So it was upon their first defection to idolatry, (Judges 2:14,) and so it continued to be in all ages, as we read in that and the following sacred books. I will hide my face from them A metaphor borrowed from kings, who will not allow those who have offended them to come into their presence and see their face. It signifies, I will withdraw my favour and my help. Whatever outward troubles we are in, if we have but the light of God's countenance, we are safe. But if God hide his face from us, then we are undone. Are not these evils come upon us because God is not among us? Here we see the true source of most national, domestic, and personal troubles, the absence of God, or his withdrawing his power, protection, and blessing. This made so remarkable a change in their affairs, that it could not but at last make them reflect on the cause of it. See Judges 3:9-15; Judges 4:3.